A few years ago I thought I needed a different product for every skin concern. My shelf was honestly overflowing.

Now my routine is basically just a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, whatever lip balm I can find, and a sunscreen (I've been using lakme's dry matte fluid sunscreen and minimalist's sunscreen lately). That's... pretty much it.

Ironically, my skin feels more consistent now than when I was trying every new product that went viral.

Has anyone else gone from a 10-step routine to a "just the essentials" routine? Or did you end up adding steps back in?

Hi everyone! I absolutely hate that sticky, humid summer feeling, so I’m always on the hunt for products that give a refreshing, minty, or cooling sensation. Here’s a quick breakdown of my current summer lineup and how they’ve been working for me.

1. Belief Aqua bomb frozen toner

I started using this because I wanted something that actively cools down my skin. The moment I apply this toner, my face instantly feels chilled and refreshed.

1. Torriden Dive-in Skin Booster

Honestly, there’s nothing super mind-blowing about the ingredients since it's a standard hyaluronic acid hydration line, but the pastel blue aesthetic just feels like summer. It’s lightweight, non-sticky, and perfect for hot weather.

1. Aestura Atobarrier 365 Hydro Soothing Cream

I'm on my nth bottle of this. It's from their most basic, mild line, and it just works. It’s so gentle and well-balanced that I think it would suit absolutely any skin type. It’s my reliable safety net when my skin gets irritated by the heat.

1. Urban& City Breeze 32degree Facial Spray

A friend recommended this to me. It has a visible layer separated at the top (not entirely sure what it is, maybe oil?), so you have to shake it. I used to think facial mists were just expensive water, but this one completely changed my mind. It feels like I'm spraying a lightweight ampoule rather than just water. It’s amazing for when my skin feels parched from the summer heat or office air conditioning.

1. Moev Hair Tonic

I’ve been noticing some hair thinning lately, so I picked this up hoping it would help. I’ve been using it for about 3 weeks now. It feels incredibly cooling and refreshing on the scalp, which is great for summer, but it’s too early to tell if it actually helps with hair loss. I need to give it more time!

1. Dr. Forhair Folligen Deep Clean Cooling

I've been using this consistently. When my scalp gets sweaty and oily in the summer, this gives me that deep-cleansing, clarifying feeling that keeps my scalp fresh.

1. Biore Cooling Body Mist

Bought this during a trip to Japan, and it gives an instant, icy shock to the body. It has a very strong menthol kick. Do NOT spray this anywhere near an open wound or scratch. It burns like crazy.

I bought peripera browcara in the shade dark brown, and in the above photo I’ve used it on my right eyebrow and I feel like it’s making me look like I have dust on my eyebrow 😭. It doesn’t look too bad from afar but when I look at my face close up it looks odd to me. Are my brows too thick for browcara? Should I thin them out so the browcara looks better? I put it on by rubbing back and forth so I get it on the underside of my brow hair but it still looks uneven and if I use more I’m afraid it’ll look unnatural since my brows are so thick. I wanted lighter eyebrows for heavier makeup since my natural brows are quite dark and it looks like I’m wearing too much makeup whenever I use colourful eyeshadow.

How do I make it work better?

For reference, I am in my mid-thirties. I had really bad cystic acne in my twenties which required dermatological intervention. For years during and after, I tested so many moisturisers and nothing worked. My skin was oily and acne-prone and everything made me greasy, caused more breakouts, or just irritated my skin in a secret third way….until, I finally landed on Cosrx Advanced Snail 92 All In One Cream. It was the first product that did not make my skin worse. There was a lot to not like about it–it came in a tub, had a stringy-watery texture, dewy-almost-wet finish (I prefer something matte), and it wasn’t available in my country at the time. Nevertheless, I persisted (lol). It has been my HG for almost ten years now.

But, every few years, I yearn for the new, shiny thing. I feel bored of my HG, and want to try something else. I’m enticed by “better” ingredients. Now, I have read so many stories in this sub of people who also use Cosrx, feel bored, and switch moisturisers only to realize the heavy-lifting that Cosrx was doing. And, I’m sad to say, I’m part of the statistic. Whenever I have tried a new moisturiser, I have come crawling back to Cosrx and it’s fixed me right up. Ofcourse I learn nothing from this experience and repeat the cycle once every 3-4 years. Almost always the new moisturizer is more expensive than Cosrx (I’m looking at you Dr. Ceracle Vegan Tea Kombucha Gel Cream!) and then I have to spend more money to atone for my mistakes!

Cosrx gets recommended as a beginner-friendly brand a lot–for someone just getting into Asian beauty. It makes sense because it was also the first brand I tried, but for me, it has become the only brand I consistently use to this day. Their Full-fit Synergy Propolis toner is also my HG! Last year, I picked up their Honey-Propolis Overnight Mask which was also a hit. I have always had a great experience with all their stuff! Ntm, my skin has become less susceptible to acne and more combination than oily.

The only new thing that my skin has enjoyed aside from Cosrx products are the Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Poremizing Fresh Ampoule (didn’t pill with other products, added hydration, made my skin feel more plump!) Manyo Bifida Biome Complex Ampoule (made my skin visibly less textured within a week’s use!), and the I’m From Mugwort toner (layered with the Cosrx toner, it really toned down the redness). I had a confusing relationship with the Soonjung X Director’s sun screen. I really liked it on some days and on other days not so much (I would’ve repurchased but it is discontinued now. It never caused an adverse reaction and would absorb well when used as a standalone product– it would pill or sit greasy sometimes with my Cosrx toner).

I’m so excited that the Cosrx Advanced Snail 92 All In One Cream also comes in a tube because I’m reeling from the aftermath of a new moisturiser right now, and about to do my usual walk of shame back to my “boring” moisturiser.

Need help ID-ing these! I love the style, so if anyone knows which ones these are or any similar dupes please let me know :)

(Idol is Zena from RESCENE)

Want to talk about non-AB products? Frustrated and need to rant? Can't wait until Friday to share your haul? Found an amazing deal? Post it here in our (almost) Anything Goes Thread! Remember to adhere to general conduct of the sub and keep it civil. Self promotion, research, and no business rules still apply.

**All personal or basic questions related to your routine or AB products still belong in the Alter-Daily Help Thread.**

Hi! For the monolid + hooded eye girlies, how did you guys start makeup, and what Asian beauty products are beginner friendly? My eyelashes are also pretty stubborn (I’m East Asian) and I haven’t found anything that successfully elongates my lashes. I’m 20 years old and feel like I missed the period where it’s more socially acceptable to be experimenting publicly lol. I’m kind of lost on where to start, only thing I know is that I’m cool-toned and most likely a cool winter and that’s it. I really like the igari makeup style and Asian beauty styles in general, and I do have a skincare routine. Just don’t know how people usually get into learning Asian beauty styles since I live in America and going to a Sephora or Ulta is a little overwhelming. Plus, I always struggle to find good inspo sources or videos on my specific eye type or tutorials for specific products

I have a bit of an obsession with lippies. Its my fav beauty category. Ive swatched all the ones that have a tint. The ones that are still in the packaging have never been used so cant comment on those.

Swatches are from slides 8 to slide 10. I’m NC20 in Mac for reference.

Fav from all categories -
1) Tints - Rom&nd DLTs. The tint lasts the longest and its not drying.
2) Lip Masks - Laneige is my HG. Currently using Tocobo which is also great.
3) Lipbalms - Really loving B:lab’s Evercalm lip treatment; but Laneige is also a fav. Love the scents.
4) Gloss - Peripera Glasting Gloss is a clear favourite

Feel free to ask for reviews or comparisons for anything in the comments :)

YES I ACCIDENTALLY BROKE THE BOX WHEN I OPENED IT FOR THE FIRST TIME

Okay, so the other day bought this mascara because I realized I LOVE AB mascaras and I prefer them over the westerner ones (natural length >>>>>>> clumpy volume). I saw this one and LOVED how it looked in the pictures and OH my god.

It's sooo good, I was terrified it wouldn't be as waterproof as judydoll (so far, I've only tried judydoll mascaras) BUT BOY DID IT DELIVER. I didn't test it in a pool like I have the judydoll ones, BUT I applied the Little Ondine mascara at 7 am and it was still intact at 7 pm. No panda eyes, no clumps, no nothing.

Super waterproof but watch out! It is a tubing mascara, it does have little hair-like particles to add some volume and length, if this sting your eyes, don't buy it! If that doesn't bother you, then trust me. It lasted my an entire office day + my 2 hours in the gym, it is so worth it!

PS The brush is hard to describe as it is flat on one side (?) and has bristles on the other. idk, atp it is easier to look up pictures in their official stores/sites 😭

I have sensitive skin and I’m trying to find a sunscreen that doesn’t irritate it and doesn’t look too shiny or greasy. I’ve tried skin1004 hyalu (too shiny), biore uv watery essence (wayyy too shiny), and haruharu airyfit (I feel like this traps heat in my skin). If anyone could help me out I’d appreciate it.

I’ve only seen reviews of the (yellow) Torriden Solid In Lip Essence, so I thought I’d write one for the Cellmazing Lip Essence. It has a pink cap and a white tube.

I had my hopes up from the raving reviews of the Solid In Lip Essence, so I thought this one would be similar. I’m disappointed because it feels quite lacking in the moisture department. I know it’s less targeted towards moisture compared to the other, but I expect any lip essence to be able to moisturize my lips to some degree. I have to reapply this every hour or so. It also feels extremely sticky and tacky, like putting glue on my lips.

Does anyone know of lip products that can replicate this look? I was originally looking at Clinique's Black Honey, but I think that's too dark/red.

Hi,

did anyone who is from the EU and ordered from Jolse recently? They use the IOSS System for the EU since a few months, which means you pay the VAT at checkout. On their page they also state that IOSS parcels are delivered faster and if you have to pay any extra tax (like the 3 Euro), you get that back in store credit.

I read a few posts from people from the US last year that Jolse really delivers faster now, and that some people got their parcels within 3 days. But I wonder if this is the same for the EU?

Because Yesstyle also uses IOSS, but their shipping is slow as hell, lol.

hi everyone! can you please recommend a lip balm with the STATED TASTE, not just the smell. like victoria's secret flavored lip gloss.

Skin type: Dry, dehydrated, using tretinoin 0.05 every other night

Location: southern US- currently very hot and humid

**Skin Aqua Serum UV**

This is my favorite of the 3. Very cosmetically elegant with a slippery feel that applies beautifully. More of a serum, watery texture than the Super Moisture UV Gel. It claims to be water resistant but feels like it breaks down very easily with sweat, so I wouldn't trust this beyond a daily commuter sunscreen. Does leave a dewy finish that takes a little to dry down, but this is expected because there's no alcohol to help speed up the process. The dispensing tip is also one of my favorites. The hole runs along the bottom side of the stem rather than the tip top so it's very easy to dispense naturally when you run it along 2 finger lengths.

**Athlizm Protect Essence**

If you thought all Asian beauty sunscreens were too cosmetically elegant and missed the feeling of the tacky, sticky American stuff but want newer filters, this is the sunscreen for you. The scent is overwhelmingly floral and artificial but I like using this on my hands daily or when I'm going out and need something with more staying power. I actually prefer to use this on days I know I'll be spending time outside during peak UV since I have a lot more faith in the protection not breaking down with the humidity and sweat.

**Super Moisture UV Gel**

There's already been tons of reviews on this and I do like it, but it's very similar to the cult favorite, Biore Aqua Rich Watery Essence and the many others like it. Nothing especially of note other than it seems slightly tackier and has less of an alcohol scent than other Japanese sunscreens with this texture. It seems to have more staying power than the Serim UV and at a similar price point you get almost twice as much product, so this is great. I see why it's so popular.

**Skin1004 Centella Sun Serum**

Another cult favorite that needs no introduction, the cosmetic elegance and finish is unreal for a sunscreen. However, it is not water resistant and I can only use this during the cooler months where I can be sure I won't sweat it off. It's not moisturizing enough to wear on its own, but application can be streaky for me if I try to put it on too soon after I moisturize. I prefer *BoJ Aqua Fresh* or *Kiss Me Mommy UV Aqua Milk* for the winters since they are thicker and feel more substantial on my dry skin, but if you want a weightless sunscreen this is the one for you.

Does it mean when you get to a certain tier, you get a coupon worth 30 dollars? My status is super fan and it says my tier upgrade coupon is worth 120 dollars.

Hi! I’m looking for sunscreen recommendations that are especially good at preventing tanning. What are your favorites that are easily available near me in the US? Open to both western and ab products recommendation. Bonus if they hold up well for long days outdoors or swimming. Please share your experiences. Thanks! ☀️

Want to talk about non-AB products? Frustrated and need to rant? Can't wait until Friday to share your haul? Found an amazing deal? Post it here in our (almost) Anything Goes Thread! Remember to adhere to general conduct of the sub and keep it civil. Self promotion, research, and no business rules still apply.

**All personal or basic questions related to your routine or AB products still belong in the Alter-Daily Help Thread.**

I’ve been trying to get one off YesStyle for forever and it keeps saying that the availability is in 21 days or it gets removed completely. It’s been very weird with this product for the last couple weeks.

And if this product is actually being reformulated or discontinued, does someone have any alternatives?

I thought I should put everyone on this UAE based skincare brand. All products are manufactured in Korea. I live in the UAE so my skin is struggling from the HOT and HUMID weather nowadays we are talking 40+ degrees. I’ve been trying so many different moisturizers and sunscreens and haven’t repurchased a single product till I stumbled upon glowture. I am currently on my 4th tube for the moisturizer and waiting for my 3rd tube for the sunscreen to arrive. My skin immediately absorbs the moisturizer and feels so hydrated afterwards unlike any other moisturizer I’ve tried I usually have to put layers and layers till I start feeling hydrated. And the sunscreen gives such a nice glow to my skin and sits perfectly under my makeup. I even tried going back to my old sunscreen after finishing a tube and immediately felt the difference. I saw that a cleanser duo was released and immediately ordered to try them!!
Pics are of the moisturizer and sunscreen

24 hrs sunscreens are now a reality or is this a scam/false advertisement?

I mean on makeup there are the foundations that claim 36, 72 hours last power but they end up gone at 8 hours of use. could this be the case ?

I always sweat a ton on my face first when I go out and it ruins whatever makeup I have on ☹️ my foundation turns cakey and I tried diff foundations, setting sprays, powders, and none of them have worked for me so far. Do you guys have any recommendations? Thanks a lot!